A run-down seaside resort on the Co Antrim coats is in for a facelift with news of a £2m investment in public facilities.

On a visit to Portrush, the Stormont Minister for Social Development Nelson McCausland has announced the public realm scheme for the popular resort.

Working in conjunction with Coleraine Borough Council the Station Square area of the town is set to be regenerated starting October 2011.

The DUP Minister said: "This public realm scheme will transform the Station Square area, creating an environment that will provide a warm welcome to all those who visit the town and boosting the appeal to tourists and residents.

"It is important that we invest in towns like Portrush to ensure that we have an environment that attracts both local and international visitors, which in turn will help to sustain and develop the local economy.

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"This will be the first proposal to be delivered in the Western Peninsula Strategy," he said

"Regeneration schemes such as this sustain employment in the construction sector which in turn supports the wider economy. My Department will continue to work in partnership with Coleraine Council to ensure that other proposals in the Western Peninsula Strategy are taken forward and Portrush continues to benefit from a wide range of regeneration initiatives."

Mayor

Speaking during the visit, the Mayor of Coleraine, Alderman Maurice Bradley welcomed the Minister's announcement:

"The Minister's confirmation that the Department for Social Development will contribute £1,000,000 to match Council's funding of the Station Square Environmental Improvement Scheme is great news for Portrush and for the Borough.

"This is another very positive example of the Department fulfilling its 2007 pledge to work in partnership with Council in realising the Portrush Regeneration Strategy," he said.

"The scheme will be an economic catalyst for the town, encouraging private sector investment and helping to create a more vibrant and dynamic tourist resort.

"Station Square is an important gateway to the town centre creating first impressions of Portrush.

"Rejuvenation of this area will enhance its overall appeal and encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy the town's unique ambience.

"This is a very welcome initiative helping to ensure Portrush will continue to be the most popular tourist resort in Northern Ireland."

(BMcC)